Dakota Pacific Traffic Impact Study Peer Review  

Up first, we have a quick Dakota Pacific-related update for our listeners. Recently, Dakota Pacific submitted an updated Traffic Impact Study for its proposed redevelopment of the Summit Research Park or Park City Tech Center in Kimball Junction.  

As part of the review of the updated study, the County Council elected to commission an independent, third-party peer review of the study based on input received by residents last December who wanted the County to verify Dakota Pacific’s data. At this week’s council meeting, after an RFP process conducted by county staff, Community Development Director, Pat Putt recommended to the Council that the county hire Wall Consulting Group (WCG) as the third-party who will conduct a peer review of Dakota Pacific’s updated traffic impact study.  

The Council supported the recommendation. From here, a contract and disclosure affidavit will be drafted and executed, and the peer review will commence. We’ll keep you updated in the coming months on what comes next for the Dakota Pacific Development agreement.  

Truth in Taxation + Budgets

Last week, we reported on North Summit Fire District’s Truth in Taxation public hearing, noting that the Council pushed the decision on the district’s proposed tax increase to this week.  

At this week’s meeting, the Council heard from North Summit Fire Chief, Ben Neilson, who gave more detail on the over 1 million dollars that the district allotted towards payroll in their 2023 budget. After reviewing the breakdown Chief Neilson provided, the Council approved the tax increase and the district’s 2023 budget. 

This week it was Snyderville Basin Special Service District’s turn to hold their Truth in Taxation public hearing regarding their proposed 19.9% tax increase. After hearing from several members of the public, the Council approved the increase. 

Finally, the Council approved the 2023 County budget, which included a 10% COLA for county employees and a 12% COLA for sworn officers in the Sheriff’s Office, as well as the 2023 county fee schedule.  

Acknowledgement of Retirements 

Also at this week’s  Council meeting, the council recognized the retirements of two long-serving employees who made a tremendous impact on Summit County throughout their 25- and 30-year tenures, respectively. 

Robin “Nino” Judd retired this week from the County’s Finance Department, taking with her a huge amount of institutional knowledge. There was not a single purchase made in the County with which she was not involved. The County will miss her skill and oversight of our finances, her humor, and great friendship. We wish Robin well in her retirement. 

Derrick Radke also retired this week after 30 years combined as the County Engineer and Public Works Director, his contributions visible throughout the County for there is not a single transportation facility, construction project, or road improvement which he did not touch. Colleagues spoke about how Derrick lifted up others, his tremendous work ethic, invaluable advice and guidance, among other attributes that made him an excellent coworker and leader. Derrick will be greatly missed as well. 

 Episode 50 + Survey  

Before we go, we just wanted to recognize that this is our 50th episode! It’s been so fun breaking down county council meetings, letting you know about community engagement opportunities, and more every week.  

We’ve learned a lot on this podcasting adventure this year, but we know we can always do better! We’ve created a short feedback survey for our listeners to share their thoughts! Let us know what you liked, what you didn’t, or what you’d like to see more of! You can access the survey at summitcounty.org/engage under the ‘get involved’ header! 

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2023 Budgets + Truth in Taxation 

Ok, let’s talk about public hearings. At Wednesday’s Council meeting, North Summit Special Recreation District, Park City Fire Service District, and Mountain Regional Water Special Service District all held public hearings on their 2022 budget amendments and 2023 budgets. After hearing from members of the public, all three entities had their budgets for next year approved. 

There was also a public hearing on the County’s proposed 2023 budget, including the proposed 10% COLA or cost of living adjustment for county employees. No decision will be made until next week, on December 14, when another public hearing will be held. More on that a bit later in the episode. 

And, finally there was a Truth in Taxation public hearing held for the North Summit Fire Service District. 

Before we move forward talking about the public hearing, can you explain what Truth in Taxation is?  

Sure! Truth in Taxation is a process established by the Utah State Legislature where the county and its taxing entities (like school districts or special service districts) are required to hold a public hearing and inform taxpayers of proposed tax increases prior to the Council voting on and making changes. The process encourages transparency and provides an opportunity for residents to comment on the proposal before the County Council makes any final decision.

Ok, now back to the North Summit Fire District’s Truth in Taxation public hearing. The Council heard from dozens of community members who expressed concerns and asked questions about the district’s proposed tax increase. Ultimately, the Council pushed the decision on the increase to next week, December 14, awaiting more detail from NSFD on the $1 million + they’ve allotted towards payroll in their 2023 budget. 

To be clear, the public hearing regarding NSFD’s proposed tax increase is now closed. Next week, on 12/14 at the Richins Building in Kimball Junction beginning around 4:10 PM, the Council will make their final decision on the increase and their 2023 budget. 

Upcoming Public Hearings + Truth in Taxation

Speaking of next week, on Wednesday, December 14th there will be a few more public hearings we think our listeners should be aware of! 

There will be a continued discussion and final decision on the County’s fee schedule, which we reported on last week, as well as on the County’s 2023 Budget. In addition, the Snyderville Basin Special Recreation District will be hosting a Truth in Taxation public hearing regarding their proposed 19.9% tax increase. 

Again, these hearings will take place on Wednesday, December 14, beginning at 6 PM at the the anchor location Sheldon Richins Building, 1885 West Ute Blvd, Park City, UT 84098 

Please join in person if you would like to comment on any of the topics being discussed. If you can’t make it in-person, comment will be taken on Zoom. We’ll have the Zoom info up on the homepage of the County’s website right there under the news section. 

Don’t want to comment, but still want to listen in? The Council meetings are always streamed live on the Summit County, UT facebook page. 

BRT Community Engagement 

Ok, moving on…in case you haven’t heard dedicated bus transit lanes are coming to Summit County and Park City! 

The County has been working on this project for the last 5 years as a solution to traffic congestion and safety along SR-224. So far, we’ve secured $24m in federal funding and $30.3 m in state monies for the project. 

Now,  together with the Federal Transit Administration and in cooperation with project partners High Valley Transit, Park City Municipal and UDOT, the county has prepared a Categorical Exclusion, or CatEx under the National Environmental Policy Act for the SR-224 Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project. Basically, the CatEx is a federal requirement that allows us to move into a final design of the project, which is expected to start in January of 2023.

The BRT project is specifically intended to enable the existing 10 White Electric Xpress bus service to operate as a true BRT system by providing frequent, fast, and reliable transit service in dedicated lanes. 

More information about the project will be provided on December 12 at an open house, where project team members will be available to answer questions and talk with members of the public. The open house will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the Summit County Sheldon Richins Building, located at 1885 W. Ute Boulevard in Park City. 

In the meantime, you can always visit the project website for more information about the study at sr224brt.com.

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County Manager Interviews 

In case you missed it, Tom Fisher resigned as the County’s Manager earlier this year, and for the past several months Janna Young has been serving as the Interim County Manager while the hiring process for a new Manager takes place. 

This week, the final round of interviews for three finalist candidates are taking place. We will keep you posted in the coming weeks on the final decision.

Public Hearings 

Ok, up next we have some important dates to share with you concerning public hearings taking place this month. 

Next week, on Wednesday, December 7, at the Ledges Event Center beginning at 6 PM there will be public hearings for:

• The 2023 county budget, and 
• North Summit Fire District’s proposed tax increase. To learn more about NSFD’s proposal, please visit: summitcounty.org/NSFD.
  

Then, on Wednesday, December 14, at the Richins Building beginning at 6 PM there will be public hearings again for the 2023 county budget and for the proposed tax increase by Snyderville Basin Special Recreation District. 

These are key opportunities for members of the community to give their input on their tax dollars and how they’ll be spent, so be sure to mark your calendars. 

Fee Schedule 

Speaking of public hearings there will also be a hearing on the proposed changes to the county-wide fee schedule  on December 14th.

The changes were presented at this week’s Council meeting, and so we wanted to give our listeners a quick rundown and some context on what’s being suggested: 

The Engineering Department is proposing to create a new fine category for starting work without the appropriate Engineering Permit, and to increase the fines associated with creating an illegal driveway encroachment among other proposed changes which can be viewed online at bit.ly/summitfees. They also proposed to increase the fine associated with other violations not listed to serve as a catch all for construction mitigation infractions. Lastly, Engineering proposes to decrease the fine associated with an illegal excavation of private property (second offense) to align with the maximum fine stated in the Code. 

The Stormwater Division wants to increase their fine fees relating to recurring noncompliance issues. 

Animal Control would like to change the fine for failure to provide proof of rabies vaccination to $50 from $100. 

The Facilities Department is proposing changes to the fees for the Ledges Event Center. They would like to restructure the fees to a daily rate, with an hourly option, and a minimum four-hour block. 

The Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department is requesting an amendment to the Solid Waste Annual fee from its current rate of $60 per residential unit per year to $80 per residential unit per year. 

The Recorder’s Office wishes to add surveyor review fees for new subdivision and condominium plats, amended subdivision and condominium plats, and boundary adjustments. 

Our Emergency Services Department would like to re-activate the Community Emergency Services Response Training (CERT) here in Summit County, which has been inactive for several years. The recommended fee is $50.

Finally, the Building Department is requesting to remove the “Agricultural Building reduced valuation calculation” as well as all plumbing, electrical and mechanical fees associated with agricultural buildings. To cover administrative and inspection costs agricultural buildings are proposed to be permitted as utility garages. 

You can read more about these proposed changes at: bit.ly/summitfees and attend the public hearing on December 14th at the Richins Building to give your input.. 

Fraud Guard 

Lastly, we just wanted to alert our listeners that there has been property fraud occurring in our community. Earlier this year, the County Recorder’s Office implemented a fantastic tool called Fraud Guard which helps you prevent becoming a victim of property fraud.

All you have to do is register your name and when a document is recorded with your name on it you will be notified via email. This gives you early warning of property fraud being committed in your name.

You can subscribe to Fraud Guard Alerts today on the homepage of summitcounty.org right there under the news section! If you have any questions, please contact the Recorder’s Office at 435-336-3238.

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Canvass

The Canvass of the 2022 General Election happened on Tuesday, November 22, where the Council certified the election results. 

We anticipate the results will be as follows:

• Summit County Attorney Margaret Olson, Summit County Sheriff Justin Martinez, and Summit County Clerk Eve Furse held their offices.  
• Cindy Keyes, former Finance Director for the Summit County Health Department, will become the new County Auditor. 
• Chris Robinson maintained Seat D on the Summit County Council, and Canice Hart won Seat E on the Council. 
• As for the School Board seats…
  • There were two races for North Summit School Board seats 4 and 5, which Kevin Orgill and Vern Williams won.  
  • Matthew Weller and Olivia Gunnerson took the open South Summit School Board seats. 
  • And Meredith Reed and Nick Hill won Park City School Board’s two open seats.

You can view the full results on the home page of summitcounty.org in the news section. 

Democratic Convention

This past Saturday, November 19, the Summit County Democratic Party voted 67-42 to elect Tonja Hanson to fill the open seat on the Summit County Council following council member Doug Clyde’s resignation earlier this month. 

Tonja is a fifth-generation Summit County resident. She was born and raised in Coalville, and still resides there today. 

Her background is in marketing and hospitality, and she has experience working for Vail Resorts, POWDR Corp., Sun Valley Resort, and Snowbasin.

In addition to currently serving on the Coalville City Planning Commission, she is also the vice chair of the Summit County Open Space Advisory Committee (OSAC). 

Tonja was officially sworn into her seat on Tuesday, November 22 at a County Council special meeting. Congratulations, Tonja! 

Property Taxes 

Property taxes are due NEXT WEEK on November 30. Visit summitcountytreasurer.org to pay your bill online, arrange for automatic payments, change your mailing address, or set up email notifications. 

If you have any questions, please email the Treasurer’s Office at treasurer@summitcounty.org or call (435) 336-3038.

Upcoming Event 

Lastly, we wanted to inform you all about an upcoming event at The Eccles Center on November 30th at 6 pm. Law Enforcement Officer, Jermaine Galloway will be presenting on: “Current Alcohol, Drug and Concealment Trends.” 

Officer Gallaway is known nationwide for his educational and poignant speaking engagements. He has nearly 20 years of experience in law enforcement. Much of that time has been spent focused on combating underage drinking and drug abuse. He is a highly respected and internationally recognized instructor on trends in drug/alcohol culture and enforcement.

A light dinner will be available before the presentation. Spanish translation services will be provided. You won’t want to miss this event!

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Council Schedule

Ok first up, we wanted to give a rundown of the Council’s schedule through the end of this year. 

The Council will not meet in regular session this week, on Wednesday, November 16. Their November 23 meeting was canceled as well. 

The Canvass of the 2022 General Election, where the Council will certify the election results, will take place on Tuesday, November 22 at 4 PM.

Moving into early December, the Council agenda is packed with Truth in Taxation public hearings (December 7 for North Summit Fire District and December 14 the Snyderville Basin Special Recreation District) and county budget resolutions. 

We’ll keep our listeners in the loop with more information on the official election results, truth in taxation public hearings, and the County’s 2023 budget in the coming weeks. 

Winter Safety Reminders 

Winter is right around the corner and seasonal parking limits went into effect on November 15 and will last through April 15. There will be NO on-street parking on County roads, unless otherwise marked. 

For more tips on being safe this winter, including how to properly store snow on your property, how snow plowing works in the County, and more, you can go to the homepage of summitcounty.org and click “2022-23 Winter Safety Reminders” right under the Summit County News section. 

Property Taxes 

It’s tax bill season! Property tax bills were mailed at the beginning of this month. 

Taxes are due in just two weeks on November 30. At summitcountytreasurer.org you can pay your bill online, arrange for automatic payments, change your mailing address, and set up email notifications. 

If you have any questions, please email the Treasurer’s Office at treasurer@summitcounty.org or call (435) 336-3038.

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2022 General Election

The 2022 General Election took place this past Tuesday, November 8 and we just wanted to take a moment to review some key local preliminary outcomes. 

To clarify, we’re reporting these as of Thursday, November 10. The canvass to certify the official results is not until November 22. 

Okay so… 

• Summit County Attorney Margaret Olson, Summit County Sheriff Justin Martinez, and Summit County Clerk Eve Furse are positioned to remain in office.  
• Cindy Keyes, former Finance Director for the Summit County Health Department, will become the new County Auditor. 
• It also looks like Chris Robinson is positioned to maintain Seat D on the Summit County Council, and Canice Hart currently is in the lead for Seat E on the Council. 
• As for the School Board seats…
  • There were two races for North Summit School Board seats 4 and 5, which Kevin Orgill and Vern Williams are in the lead to win those. 
  • Matthew Weller and Olivia Gunnerson are in the lead for the open South Summit School Board seats. 
  • And Meredith Reed and Nick Hill look like they’ll take the Park City School Board’s two open seats. 

Again, we’ll circle back on these in a couple weeks after the canvass has taken place. 

RPO Designation 

Ok, moving onto this week’s County Council meeting. First, the Council approved the designation for a Wasatch Back Rural Planning Organization. 

You may be wondering what a Rural Planning Organization is, and you’re not alone! It’s a new concept to me too. bridget, you want to explain a bit more? 

Sure. So, in 2016 Congress elevated the role of local officials in statewide planning so that states (in this scenario, state entities like UDOT) must “cooperate” rather than “consult” with local governments. 

An RPO will do a number of things including: develop regional long-range multimodal transportation plans; prioritize transportation projects they believe should be considered for funding in the Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan process, and in local transportation improvement programs; foster the coordination of local planning, land use, and economic development plans with State, regional, and local transportation plans and programs; and provide technical assistance to local officials.

The Wasatch Back RPO that Council approved this week will consist of  Summit County, Wasatch County, and the cities within them. Each community will appoint one representative as a member of the board, and Mountainland Association of Governments will act as the administrative and technical staff to the Board, provide coordinating consultant services, and prepare and administer the annual work program and budget.

At the end of the day, the most important thing our listeners should take away from this is that by establishing an RPO, Summit County’s transportation priorities will be elevated with UDOT because we’ll have a seat at the table to advocate for them! 

Mental Wellness Strategic Plan

Next, the Council approved a Mental Wellness Strategic Plan that will address gaps identified in mental health and substance abuse treatment and service within Summit County. The development and execution of this plan is a community-based effort and would not have been possible without the work of countless individuals and organizations in the Summit County community.

This Strategic Plan serves as a document to guide the community’s shared goals in mental wellness. These goals include:

• Expanding community access to mental health & substance use programs and services
• Increasing prevention and education around mental health & substance use
• Ensuring success and sustainability of mental health & substance use programs
• Establishing systems to support life during recovery and reintegration into the community
• Ensuring equity of mental health & substance use programs and services for Latino population and underserved community members

By addressing issues of mental health and substance use, the quality of life for all Summit County residents is enhanced.

Snow Talk 

Ok, up next, join Summit County, Park City Municipal, and our local resorts (including Deer Valley, Park City, and the UOP) at the Park City Hospital Blair Education Center THIS Monday, November 14, from 6-8 p.m. for a community presentation and open house about the upcoming winter season. Dinner and childcare will be provided.

If you are unable to attend in person, the presentation portion can be viewed live on Zoom. Questions will not be taken via Zoom. Please join us in-person for questions and conversation!  You can find the Zoom link and more information on the summitcounty.org homepage under “Summit County News” and selecting “SnowTalk”. 

Veterans Day 

Finally, this Friday November 11 is Veterans Day.. Each Veterans Day is a remembrance set aside to honor those who have defended our country. 

So, today, we wanted to pause to reflect on the sacrifices of the men and women who have served our nation—ordinary Americans performing extraordinary service. 

We express our sincerest gratitude and deepest appreciation to and for all Veterans. Thank you for your service, sacrifice, and selfless valor.

And, in case you missed it, we’ve been highlighting Summit County Veterans all week! Go to summitcounty.org homepage and find the Summit County Veterans highlight under the News Section to read their stories! 

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General Election 

Up first, the 2022 General Election is this coming Tuesday, November 8, so we want to cover some important information for Summit County voters. 

Early voting is taking place as we speak. If you need to vote early for any reason, you can do so now through Saturday, November 5 AND on Monday, November 7 anytime between 8 AM and 5 PM. Early voting locations are: the Clerk’s Office at the Courthouse in Coalville or at the Kimball Junction Branch of the Summit County Library in the Main Floor Conference Room.  

If you’re planning to VOTE BY MAIL, your ballots must be postmarked by this coming MONDAY, November 7. Ballots were mailed to Summit County voters early this month. If you haven’t received your ballot please call the Summit County Clerk’s Office at 435-336-3203. 

If you’re planning to vote in person on election day or by drop box, you can find election day voting locations and times, and drop box locations, at bit.ly/summitvotes! 

EMS Update 

Ok moving on to this week’s County Council meeting. We know Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in the county has been a hot topic over the last couple months, and we have an update from Wednesday’s meeting. 

Back in early August, Park City Fire District (PCFD) presented to the Council the possibility of PCFD exiting their current interlocal agreement with Summit County to independently provide EMS within their district boundaries with no financial support from the County. Instead, they requested that the revenues collected from billings within PCFD boundaries go to them and not the County.

Simultaneously, a master planning process for Emergency Medical Services across the county began this summer to make sure the County’s EMS system is reliable, viable, and sustainable for all residents and visitors now and into the future.

While the findings from the master planning study are gathered and analyzed, the current agreements between PCFD and Summit County are set to expire this coming February, so a temporary solution is needed.

At Wednesday’s County Council meeting, the Council approved amendments to the three interlocal agreements between PCFD and the County that will extend EMS services to Park City, North Summit and South Summit for another year, as a more permanent solution, with support from the EMS master planning study, is identified.

Additionally, the agreement for services in PCFD boundaries also specifies that PCFD can collect EMS revenues, for one year only, within their district boundaries and not receive any budget from the County. The County will still provide funding to PCFD to provide EMS in North Summit and South Summit and will continue to collect the billings charged in those areas.

Basically, what this means is that while the County, in partnership with the mayors and three fire districts, figures out the best option for providing reliable, viable, and sustainable EMS services county-wide, PCFD will continue to operate EMS in all three areas of the County as they do today.

Doug Retirement  

After six years, Doug Clyde retired from the Summit County Council on Wednesday, November 2. We wanted to take a moment to recognize and thank Doug for all he’s done to improve the health, safety, and welfare of our community, and celebrate his commitment to making Summit County an all-around better place for those who live and visit here.

As a council member, Doug served with passion about water quality and land use. He became an expert on issues involving riparian and sensitive lands. He has an unwavering commitment to decreasing sprawl, reducing traffic, improving transit, and keeping Summit County’s air and water clean.

Doug also served as the Council Chair during the COVID-19 pandemic. He responded to citizen concerns, supported staff, and helped lead the County through this crisis. He led us well.  

He will be remembered for his colorful commentary on issues, his humor, and his commitment to preserving the agricultural heritage and rural nature of eastern Summit County and improving quality of life for Summit County residents. Thank you for everything, Doug.

Property Taxes 

Moving on to some quick reminders for our listeners… 

First up, it’s tax bill season! Property tax bills were mailed last week. If you haven’t received your bill already, be sure to keep a lookout for it in the mail this week.  

Taxes are due November 30. At summitcountytreasurer.org you can pay your bill online, arrange for automatic payments, change your mailing address, and set up email notifications. 

If you have any questions, please email the Treasurer’s Office at treasurer@summitcounty.org or call (435) 336-3038.

Winter Parking 

Next, we have a quick winter safety reminder. As we enter the winter months, be aware that seasonal parking limits will go into effect starting November 15 and will last through April 15. There will be NO on-street parking on County roads, unless otherwise marked. 

For more tips on being safe this winter, you can go to the homepage of summitcounty.org and click “2022-2023 Winter Safety Reminders” right under the Summit County News section. 

Snow Talk 

And, finally, SnowTalk is coming soon! Join Summit County, Park City Municipal, and our local resorts (including Deer Valley, Park City, and the UOP) at the Park City Hospital Blair Education Center on Monday, November 14, from 6-8 p.m. for a community presentation and open house about the upcoming winter season. Dinner and childcare will be provided.

If you are unable to attend in person, the presentation portion can be viewed live on Zoom. Questions will not be taken via Zoom. Please join us in-person for questions and conversation! 

You can find the Zoom link and more information on the summitcounty.org homepage under “Summit County News” and selecting “SnowTalk”.

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Because the State of Utah’s internet systems were down on Wednesday of last week, we weren’t able to report on last week’s Council meeting. So up first this week, we’re circling back to some topics we missed!  Then, we’ll jump to topics from this week’s County Council meeting including a continuation of the Kimball Junction Interchange conversation.  And, we’ll finish up with some 2022 General Election info and upcoming community engagement opportunities. 

Kimball Junction EIS + Listening Session 

Okay, up next we’re going to talk about the Kimball Junction interchange at I-80 and SR-224. 

The Summit County Transportation Department has been working with UDOT to complete an Environmental Impact Statement or EIS to identify some options that will address congestion, mobility, safety, access, and travel time reliability at the Kimball Junction interchange and on SR-224.

Previously, UDOT, in partnership with Summit County, identified over 30 potential design alternatives. Now, the group is presenting a narrowed list of (3) recommended alternatives for further analysis. You can view these at: SUMMITCOUNTY.ORG/ENGAGE.

Reviewing the options at that link is important because, in the coming months, UDOT will be asking for public input and engagement from the Summit County community on the proposed alternatives. A public comment period will take place during the month of December 2022, and then there are planned open houses (both in-person and virtual) planned for early January. Keep that timeframe on your radar! 

As always, we’ll keep summitcounty.org/enage updated with all this info as we receive it and reshare updates from UDOT on county social channels. 

Community Visioning 

An exciting county-wide community visioning process was announced at this week’s Council meeting. The purpose of the process is to connect with and elicit meaningful, actionable input and feedback from community members to prepare for the future of Summit County over the next 30 years. 

The county hired a nationally recognized firm, called Logan Simpson, which has done similar work in communities like Teton and Cache counties that builds on culture and history to co-create an inclusive, healthy, and resilient future. 

At the end of the process, we should have a strategic plan that will help inform future land use, housing, development, transportation, health, and climate action planning work. 

The county is excited to work with Logan Simpon to guide really responsible change. 

This is such an awesome opportunity for community members to share concerns, and ideas and ask a lot of questions. The more the county hears from you, the better we’re able to address and include your values, needs, and concerns in the decision-making process.

 Stay tuned over the coming months for exact opportunities about the ways in which you can get involved in this process, and as always keep an eye on the summitcounty.org/engage page too! 

2022 General Election 

Alright shifting gears to the 2022 General Election (also referred to as the midterm) which is taking place on Tuesday, NOVEMBER 8! Let’s cover some basic details… 

If you’re planning to VOTE BY MAIL, your ballots must be postmarked by November 7. Ballots were mailed to Summit County voters early this month. If you haven’t received your ballot please call the Summit County Clerk’s Office at 435-336-3203. 

ELECTION DAY VOTING LOCATIONS

Election Day voting will be available for Summit County voters for the 2022 General Election at the following times and locations. A Summit County voter may vote at any of these Voting Centers.

November 8, 2022, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at:

• Coalville City Hall (Council Chambers), 10 North Main, Coalville
• Marsac Building (Downstairs Commission Chambers), 445 Marsac Avenue, Park City
• Summit County Library Kimball Junction (Main Floor Conference Room) 1885 West Ute Blvd., Park City (24/7)
• South Summit County Services Building/Kamas Library (Main Floor Conference Room), 110 North Main, Kamas

EARLY VOTING

Early voting will be available for Summit County voters for the 2022 General Election at the following times and locations:

• Thursday, November 3 through Saturday, November 5.
• Monday, November 7, 2022, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Locations

• Summit County Courthouse (Clerk’s Office), 60 N Main, Coalville
• Summit County Library Kimball Junction (Main Floor Conference Room) 1885 West Ute Blvd., Park City

DROP BOX LOCATIONS:

Ballots can be dropped in Ballot Drop Boxes on or before 8:00 p.m. November 8, 2022. All Drop Box locations close at 8:00 p.m. on Election Day.

North Summit

• Summit County Library, 82 North 50 East, Coalville (24/7)
• Henefer Town Hall, 150 West Center Street, Henefer (24/7)

South Summit

• Francis City Hall, 2317 Spring Hollow Road, Francis (24/7)
• Oakley City Hall, 960 West Center Street, Oakley (8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday)
• South Summit County Services Building/Kamas Library, 110 North Main, Kamas (24/7)

Park City/Snyderville

• Marsac Building, 445 Marsac Avenue, Park City (24/7)
• The Market at Park City, 1500 Snow Creek Drive, Park City (6 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 6 a.m.-9 p.m. Sundays)
• Fresh Market Jeremy Ranch, 3151 West Kilby Road, Park City (24/7)
• Summit County Library Kimball Junction (DMV Entrance), 1885 West Ute Blvd., Park City (24/7)
• Summit County Health Department Round Valley/Quinn’s Junction, 650 Round Valley Drive, Park City (24/7)

Rail Trail 

Shifting gears to the Rail Trail Corridor Project: a 30-mile arts, culture, recreation, and tourism corridor designed to cultivate a strong sense of community and offer opportunities for both resource protection and economic revitalization along the Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail.

Do you want to lend feedback about this project?

• Visit summitcounty.org/engage to fill out a survey or to join a focus group.
• You can also give feedback in person at two Open Houses. The first will take place Thursday, November 3 from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm at the Basin Recreation Offices across from Trailside Elementary School, the second Open House will take place Monday, November 7, from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm at the Ledges Event Center in Coalville.

The planning department is providing two options to ensure access to the maximum number of people. The SAME information will be presented at both Open Houses. 

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We usually start out with recapping topics that were covered at this week’s County Council meeting. Unfortunately, the State of Utah’s internet systems were down on Wednesday, and we were unable to stream the meeting. We promise we’ll double down next week to cover what you need to know! Be sure to check back in then. 

In the meantime, we have a community engagement heavy episode! We’re talking about some key engagement opportunities coming up that we think you all, our Summit in Six listeners, will want to be in the know about! 

Engage Page 

Before we get started, I wanted to preface that throughout the episode you’ll hear us point to a webpage called summitcounty.org/engage. 

This is a new initiative we’ve created over here in the Communications and Public Engagement Department where community members can find every active opportunity for them to get involved and stay engaged with Summit County. 

Community engagement informs and involves the public in the decisions and actions of local government. Attending these events, filling out these surveys, serving on these boards, and so on, are all ways that allow the County to best address the values, needs, and concerns of the public while also ensuring transparency and accountability, so please join us! 

2022 General Election 

Alright! First up we want to take a moment to talk about elections. The 2022 General Election – also referred to as the midterm – is right around the corner on November 8! 

Ballots were mailed out earlier this week on October 18 and should be arriving in mailboxes as we speak or early next week. In the meantime, sample ballots for each precinct are available online at summitcounty.org/281. 

Also, Vote Early Day is happening next week on October 28! In celebration of Vote Early Day, the Summit County Clerk’s Office will be helping every voter know how, where, and when they can vote for the 2022 General Election at Drop Box Locations all around the County. Stop by a drop box location between 8 AM and 1 PM to register to vote, plan your vote, or vote early with us! You can find locations at summitcounty.org/engage. 

We’ll check back in next week to talk about ballot deadlines, Drop Box locations, and where to-vote in person! 

EMS Planning 

Like we reported last week, a master planning process for Emergency Medical Services across the county began earlier this year to make sure high-quality emergency medical services are available for all residents and visitors, and to effectively plan for the future of EMS in Summit County.

As part of the process, the county is hosting town hall-style meetings to gather concerns, perspectives, and ideas of all those interested in the future of EMS in Summit County on: 

• October 27: Ledges Event Center Multipurpose Room, Coalville | 6-8 p.m.
• October 28: Summit County Health Department Downstairs Conference Room at Quinn’s Junction/Round Valley, Park City | 6-8 p.m.

If you have questions or comments about the future of EMS here in Summit County, these town-halls are a don’t miss! 

Rail Trail 

Shifting gears to the Rail Trail Corridor Project: a 30-mile arts, culture, recreation, and tourism corridor being designed to cultivate a strong sense of community and offer opportunities for both resource protection and economic revitalization along the Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail.

Do you want to lend feedback about this project?

• Visit summitcounty.org/engage to fill out a survey or to join a focus group.
• You can also give feedback in person at two Open Houses. The first will take place Thursday, November 3 from 5:00 pm – 7:00pm at the Basin Recreation Offices across from Trailside Elementary School, the second Open House will take place Monday, November 7 from 5:00 pm – 7:00pm at the Ledges Event Center in Coalville.

*The SAME information will be presented at both Open Houses. The planning department is providing two options to ensure access to the maximum number of people.

Living with Wildfire 

And last, but certainly not least, join us for the next event in the Living with Wildfire Learning Series.  

Ever wonder what role fire plays on our local landscape? How controlled burns protect our community from destruction by fire? What are the keys to wildfire prevention? You’ll learn the answers to these questions (and many more), as well as hear from area professionals in wildfire ecology, wildlife biology, air quality, and beyond. 

This event will be hosted in person on October 25 from 6 to 7:30 PM at Park City’s Council Chambers at 445 Marsac Ave. You can also join virtually on zoom.  Zoom info can be found at summitcounty.org/engage and selecting the “Using Fire to Fight Fire” event. 

Outro

One last time, remember summitcounty.org/engage for ways to stay connected with Summit County moving forward! 

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Today, we’ll…

• Cover some items from this week’s council meeting, including a proposed study on the Echo Divide Wind Park and Community Reinvestment Area, as well as give an update on the North Summit Special Service Recreation District Project.
• Preview the upcoming community input sessions for the future of EMS in the county.
• Share some amazing opportunities for community engagement with the Community Development Department and recap a wildfire fuels treatment project that will take place this fall along I-80.

Proposed Echo Divide Community Reinvestment Project Area

Let’s dive into our council recap by taking a step back to 2019 when the Eastern Summit County Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit to review a project called the Echo Divide Wind Park. The proposed project is located along the Utah-Wyoming border southeast of I-80 in eastern Summit County, approximately 7 miles southwest of Evanston, Wyoming.

According to Echo Divide Wind LLC the project will use approximately 39 turbines to generate up to 100 MegaWatts of electricity, which is capable of powering the equivalent of approximately 21,730 Summit County homes per year. Towards that end, Echo Divide Wind LLC has approached the Summit County Community Development and Renewal Agency to consider the establishment of a community reinvestment project area plan and budget in support of the Echo Divide Wind Farm Project.

The Board of the Summit County Community Development and Renewal Agency adopted a resolution directing staff to begin that process. Doing so represents the first step towards establishing a Community Reinvestment Area and associated tax increment area. The establishment of a new Community Reinvestment Area (CRA) and associated Tax Increment Area (TIF) could potentially benefit the County and other taxing entities.

North Summit Recreation Special Service District

The North Summit Recreation Special Service District came before council to discuss some issues they’ve run into during the process of building out their Beacon Hill Park project. As a recap: in 2018, Coalville City transferred land to The District via a special warranty deed under the restriction that the property would be used for a public park, for recreational purposes, and for meetings and events consistent with any public park

Then in 2021, The County and The District applied together and received a Summit County Recreation Arts and Parks Grant for One Million One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($1,100,000.00) to be used for this project.

Fast forward to this summer of 2022– The District discovered they are unable to proceed with development because the parcel they were given is currently included in a pre-recorded plat for the Indian Hills Subdivision Plat 3. A North Summit family owns the neighboring lots within the Indian Hills Subdivision Plat 3 to the east of The District’s platted lots and would be impacted by any subdivision amendment like the one North Summit Rec. is seeking.

The District’s progress is halted until they receive an amendment on the plat and can vacate a portion of Settler’s Drive. So Council gave their support to the special service district to take the next step forward and file paperwork with Coalville City concerning the subdivision amendment and road vacation they seek.

That application will go through the city’s public process, so there will be plenty of time and opportunities for public engagement and feedback on this project as it moves forward in the review process.

2023 Budget

Interim County Manager Janna Young presented her 2023 Budget Recommendations to Council with Finance Director Matt Leavitt this week. Janna indicated a 10% Cost of Living Increase or “COLA” for County employees as a high item on her budget agenda for this year. She said this COLA would assist Summit County in being competitive with surrounding jurisdictions, increase the employee retention rate, and keep up with the increased cost of living and inflation in the area.

Here’s a surface-level look at the 2023 Manager’s Budget Recommendation:

• It reflects a $71.7 million dollar operating budget (which is around an 8% increase from the 2022 budget)
• $11.6 million dollars of that operating budget will be coming from fund balances
• There are 9 new positions being recommended, but 3 full-time positions are grant funded and 1 full-time position is fee funded.

These positions include:

• A permit technician in the planning and zoning department
• An entry-level engineer
• A GIS specialist in IT
• A landscape technician in the Facilities Department
• An Economic Development and Housing Specialist
• A floater position that can assist multiple departments with excess workflow
• An emergency preparedness position from the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) 
• A Communications Coordinator position
• A Public Lands Coordinator

The 2023 Budget Process will continue into next week’s Council meeting once Council members have had the time to review the manager’s recommendations in full. So be sure to tune in next week for an update on this topic.

Summit County EMS Planning community input

In August, Summit County began a master planning process for Emergency Medical Services across the county. The process is being facilitated by SafeTech Solutions, LLP, an independent national EMS consulting firm with broad experience in strategic planning, EMS assessment, and rural EMS. 

The goals of the Summit County EMS master planning process are to ensure reliable, efficient, and high-quality emergency medical services for all residents and visitors, and to effectively plan for the future of EMS in Summit County.

As part of the effort to study, understand, and improves EMS, the county is hosting three town hall-style meetings to gather concerns, perspectives, and ideas of all those interested in the future of EMS in Summit County.

If you have questions or comments about the future of EMS, please plan to attend one of the following in-person meetings:

• October 20 – South Summit County Services Building (Library) Auditorium, Kamas | 6-8 p.m.
• October 27 – Ledges Event Center Multipurpose Room, Coalville | 6-8 p.m.
• October 28 – Summit County Health Department Downstairs Conference Room at Quinn’s Junction/Round Valley, Park City | 6-8 p.m.

Rail Trail Corridor – Public Engagement Round 2

Shifting gears to a few opportunities to get involved with the Community Development Department:

First up is the Rail Trail Corridor Project. It is a 30-mile arts, culture, recreation, and tourism corridor being designed to cultivate a strong sense of community and offer opportunities for both resource protection and economic revitalization along the Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail.

Do you want to lend feedback about this project?

• Visit summitcounty.org/engage to fill out a survey or to join a focus group.
  
• You can also give feedback in person at two Open Houses. The first will take place Thursday, November 3 from 5:00 pm – 7:00pm at the Basin Recreation Offices across from Trailside Elementary School, the second Open House will take place Monday, November 7 from 5:00 pm – 7:00pm at the Ledges Event Center in Coalville.
  

*The SAME information will be presented at both Open Houses. The planning department is providing two options to ensure access to the maximum number of people.

The Community Development Department is also seeking residents to join their Community Planning Lab–it’s a 10-week course from mid-January to April. The course will have a hybrid format to meet in person or via Google Classroom. Planning Lab activities will include presentations from experts in the planning and land use policy fields, field trips, and project work. Visit summitcounty.org/engage to let us know you’re interested in enrolling.

Parley’s Canyon Oak Brush Project:

Head’s up to those traveling I-80 Eastbound in the coming weeks….Work is set to begin on the Parleys Canyon Oak Brush Mastication Project on Oct. 20. You’ll see machines like this grinding down the Oak Brush along a section of I-80 near the Lamb’s Canyon exit throughout the fall. This will NOT affect road traffic, but the project is so visual that we wanted to give everyone advance notice and knowledge around the project.

You may be wondering: “Why bring in a big machine to tear up Gamble Oak?”

Well, while it may not be the prettiest sight, this process will open up the landscape to thrive. Diverse native plants will finally grow again after being overshadowed by Gamble Oak for years. Another benefit of this project is that it provides wildfire fuels mitigation for the area near where the Parleys Canyon Fire took place in 2021.

Shoutout to all the partners involved in this project: Utah Forestry, Fire & State Lands, Utah Department of Natural Resources, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Salt Lake City Public Utilities and the U.S. Forest Service.

Stay tuned: We will be sharing updates about this project over the coming weeks.

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